Mattie McGrath (Tipperary, Independent) | Oireachtas source

There is a serious situation regarding the diminishing Garda numbers all over this country, while the Minister says they are increasing. The town of Carrick-on-Suir has only four gardaí when it used to have 18. Roscrea used to have 27 gardaí - we know the problems they have there now - and now only has seven. It is the same in Cahir and Clonmel in my constituency and all over the country. I regularly meet gardaí who are up here from other areas helping to police the city and leaving the people at home. When are we going to have a meaningful and honest debate about issues surrounding gardaí and the lack of numbers? I know the Government has increased the age limit, but it is too little, too late. The number has been allowed to diminish so low - in roads policing and everything else. We need a proper debate on that issue.

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